Vehicle entertainment system

ABSTRACT

A vehicle entertainment system including a video system having a video monitor and a cradle secured within a vehicle. The cradle is shaped and dimensioned for selectively receiving and securely holding the video system. The cradle includes a docking port with a faceplate that is substantially flush with an upper end of a seat back of an automobile.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation in part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/177,405, filed Jul. 11, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,604,273entitled “Vehicle Entertainment System”, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provision Application Ser. No. 60/690,874, filed Jun. 16, 2005,entitled “Vehicle Entertainment System”, and U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/177,405 is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/982,896, filed Nov. 8, 2004, now abandoned entitled“AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Nos. 60/517,862, filed Nov. 7, 2003,entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to a vehicle entertainment system. Moreparticularly, the invention relates to an entertainment systemintegrating a video source and video monitor within the ceiling of anautomobile, wherein the video source and video monitor are detachablysecured to the ceiling of an automobile.

2. Description of the Related Art

Entertainment systems for automobiles are well known. As such, manyadvances have been made in the development of entertainment systems thatmake the otherwise tedious task of riding in an automobile morebearable. In addition to the development of overhead systems pioneeredby the present inventor, systems that mount within the headrest of anautomobile have also been developed.

These headrest entertainment systems allow multiple individuals to viewa variety of different video sources within the same vehicle. However,and as those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, it isdesirable to provide added versatility to these entertainment system.The present invention attempts to accomplish this by providing a systemwhereby the video system may be selectively removed from an automobileand used at other locations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide avehicle entertainment system including a video system having a videomonitor and a cradle secured within a vehicle. The cradle is shaped anddimensioned for selectively receiving and securely holding the videosystem. The cradle includes a docking port with a faceplate that issubstantially flush with an upper end of a seat back of an automobile.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a vehicleentertainment system wherein the video system includes a video source,and the video source is a DVD player or hard drive.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a vehicleentertainment system wherein the video system includes electricalconnectors shaped and dimensioned for selective engagement withelectrical connectors formed within the cradle.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a vehicleentertainment system wherein the cradle includes a primary recess intowhich the video system is mounted.

It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide a vehicleentertainment system including at least one docking station to which thevideo system may be selectively secured when not coupled to the cradle.

It is still a further object of the present invention to provide avehicle entertainment system wherein the video system includeselectrical connectors shaped and dimensioned for selective engagementwith electrical connectors formed within the docking station.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a vehicleentertainment system wherein the video system includes a baseselectively secured to the cradle, and the base includes a means forpivoting the video monitor.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a vehicleentertainment system including a cover for covering the cradle when itis not in use.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a vehicleentertainment system wherein the cover includes a power source.

Other objects, advantages and salient features of the invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description, which taken inconjunction with the annexed drawings, discloses a preferred, butnon-limiting, embodiment of the subject invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an automobile entertainment systemin accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the housing of the video systemshown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are front perspective views showing the entertainmentsystem with the video system coupled to the headrest and detached fromthe headrest.

FIGS. 5, 6, 7 and 8 are views of entertainment systems in accordancewith alternate embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 9 shows the video system of FIG. 1 mounted within a dash dockingstation.

FIG. 10 shows the video system of FIG. 1 mounted within a mobile dockingstation.

FIG. 11 shows the video system of FIG. 1 mounted within a static dockingstation.

FIG. 12 is a side view of a vehicle seat incorporating an automobileentertainment system in accordance with an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 13 is a detailed view of the automobile entertainment system shownin accordance with FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing installation of the video systemutilized in conjunction with the automobile entertainment system shownwith reference to FIG. 12.

FIGS. 15 and 16 are respectively a rear view and a side view of thevideo system of the automobile entertainment system shown with referenceto FIG. 12.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing the cradle of the automobileentertainment system with video system removed and a cover beingselectively secured thereto.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket utilized inconjunction with the automobile entertainment system shown withreference to FIG. 12.

FIGS. 19 and 20 are respectively a side view and a rear view showing analternate embodiment of the automobile entertainment system shown withreference to FIGS. 12 to 18.

FIG. 21 is an exploded view of an automobile entertainment system inaccordance with yet another embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket utilized inconjunction with the automobile entertainment system shown withreference to FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a side view showing mounting of the video system to thecradle of the embodiment shown with reference to FIG. 21.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view in accordance with yet a furtherembodiment.

FIGS. 25 and 26 are respectively a rear view and a side view showing thevideo system and the video system mounted to the cradle (only shown inFIG. 26).

FIG. 27 is a side view of the video system shown with reference to FIG.24.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein.It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments aremerely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in variousforms. Therefore, the details disclosed herein are not to be interpretedas limiting, but merely as the basis for the claims and as a basis forteaching one skilled in the art how to make and/or use the invention.

With reference to FIGS. 1 to 11, and in accordance with a firstembodiment of the present invention, an automobile entertainment system10 is disclosed. The automobile entertainment system 10 is composed of aseries of video and audio components integrated within an automobile 11.As those skilled in the art will certainly appreciate, the variousembodiments of the present entertainment system are disclosed hereinwith reference to their use within an automobile. However, theentertainment system could certainly be used in other vehicles, forexample, boats or planes, without departing from the spirit of thepresent invention.

In particular, the automobile entertainment system 10 includes a videosystem 12 detachably mounted within a standard headrest 14 of anautomobile 11. The video system 12 generally includes a video monitor 16for presenting video content and a video source 20 integrated therewith.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, thevideo source is a DVD player 20 coupled to the video monitor 16 for thetransmission of video content thereto. That is, the DVD player 20 orother video source is integrated within the same housing 18 as the videomonitor 16. It is also contemplated that a hard drive 23 video sourcemay also be integrated with the video monitor 16. As those skilled inthe art will certainly appreciate, the hard drive 23 will include inputsfor receiving video content and outputs for transmitting video contentto the video monitor 16, both of which are well known to those skilledin the art. However, and as discussed below in greater detail, the videosource may take a variety of forms without departing from the spirit ofthe present invention; for example, and not limited to, satellite videosystems and Bluetooth wireless based systems.

The video system 12 is mounted along the rear portion of the headrest 14such that an individual sitting in the rear seat of the automobile 11may watch the media presented on the video monitor 16 without disturbingthe driver of the automobile 11.

The video monitor 16, DVD player 20 and associated control componentsare mounted within the housing 18. As those skilled in the art willcertainly appreciate, the video monitor 16 is pivotally mounted within arecess 17 formed in the housing 18. In accordance with a preferredembodiment, the video monitor 16 is a TFT LCD screen. However, it iscontemplated that other monitor constructions, for example, plasma,Ultra High Definition VGA, touch screen VGA, organic LED, fabric basedmonitors (e.g., flexible TFT) etc., may be used without departing fromthe spirit of the present invention.

Although the present invention is disclosed herein as including a singlemonitor, it is contemplated the system could be designed with dualmonitors for viewing from opposite sides of the vehicle. Such a systemcould include distinct DVD players associated with each monitor or asingle DVD player linked to both monitors.

With regard to the DVD player 20, it is integrally molded within thehousing 18 and positioned for insertion of DVDs behind the video monitor16. By mounting the DVD player 20 in this way, a stable structure isdeveloped that is well adapted for the automobile environment.

While the DVD player 20 is disclosed as being a slot-loaded design withinsertion behind the video monitor, the DVD player could take a varietyof other forms while still being integrated with the video monitor 16.With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the DVD player 220 may be positionedbeneath the pivotally mounted video monitor 216. With reference to FIG.7, the DVD player 320 may be integrated with the video monitor 316 andfacilitate access via a side loading slot 317. Referring to FIG. 8, theDVD player 420 is integrated with the underside of the video monitor 416and the DVD is snapped into DVD player 420 when the monitor 416 ispivoted upward. In addition, the DVD player may be designed with abuilt-in TV tuner for providing the user with a choice of video sources.

As briefly mentioned above, the housing 18 is detachably secured to theheadrest 14. In particular, the housing 18, including the video monitor16, DVD player 20 and other related components, is detachably mountedwithin a recess 15 formed in the headrest 14. As such, the video system12 may be removed from the automobile 11 and used at a variety oflocations apart from the automobile 11. As will be discussed below ingreater detail, the video system 12 may be used alone or in conjunctionwith a docking station 50′, 50″, 50′″. Once removed, the video system 12may be used in other automobiles 11 or within an individual's home. Whenused alone, a battery pack may be connected to the video system 12 andthe video system 12 can thereby become a portable entertainment system.

A cradle 38 shaped and dimensioned for receiving the video system 12 isprovided within the recess 15 of the headrest 14. As will be discussedbelow in greater detail, similar cradles 38′, 38″, 38′″ may be providedat other locations permitting use of the video system 12 at other remotelocations. It is contemplated that such a cradle 38, 38′, 38″, 38′″would be much like the docking stations utilized with laptop computerswherein individuals are permitted to readily remove the laptop from adocking station for use at another location remote from the dockingstation.

More specifically, the cradle 38 utilized in the headrest 14 includesquick release electrical connections 42 for the audio input 22, audiooutput 24, video input 26, video output 28 and power supply 30 (althoughone embodiment contemplates a system which connects only to a powersupply). The video system 12 similarly includes mating electricalconnections 44 for transmitting electricity and a/v signals between thecradle 38 and the video system 12. In particular, when the video system12 is mounted upon the cradle 38, the respective electrical connections42, 44 mate to provide for the transmission of power and a/v signalsbetween the video system 12 and the cradle 38. As those skilled in theart will certainly appreciate, other readily removable electricalconnections for other purposes may also be supplied if one determinesthey are so needed.

In addition to the electrical connections 42 provided on the cradle 38,the cradle 38 also includes a connecting mechanism 46 designed forselectively retaining the video system 12 within the cradle 38. Theconnecting mechanism 46 permits ready and selective attachment of thevideo system 12 to the headrest 14 while preventing vibrations and otherdamaging movements that commonly occur in an automobile 11.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, theconnecting mechanism 46 includes a release button 47 and a latch member48. The release button 47 is actuated to rotate the latch member 48 andpermit removal of the video system 12 from the cradle 38. Insertion ofthe video system 12 within the headrest 14 is achieved by simply settingthe video system 12 within the cradle 38 and applying sufficient forceto the video system for overcoming the rotational force of the latchmember 48 to force the video system 12 into a secure position. While aparticular coupling structure is disclosed in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention, those skilled in the artwill appreciate that a variety of selectively releasable couplingstructures may be employed without departing from the spirit of thepresent invention.

The automobile entertainment system 10 further includes cables 32extending through the headrest 14. These cables ultimately link audio,video and power to the cradle 38 and video system 12. More specifically,the cradle 38 and video system 12 are electrically connected to theremainder of the automobile 11 via electrical communication linesextending through one or both of the extension arms 14 a, 14 b of theheadrest 14. For example, and as will be discussed below in substantialdetail, a video input 22, video output 24, audio input 26, audio output28 and power source 30, may be respectively connected to the cradle 38for ultimate connection with the video system 12 via the matingelectrical connections 42, 44 of the respective cradle 38 and videosystem 12.

Specific wiring arrangements and linking of various video systems withinan automobile in accordance with preferred embodiments of the presentinvention are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/920,425,entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filed Aug. 18, 2004, whichis incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/895,111, entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filed Jul. 21,2004, which is incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/895,110, entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM LINKINGMULTIPLE VIDEO SYSTEM FOR COORDINATED SHARING OF VIDEO CONTENT”, filedJul. 21, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/895,086, entitled “HOUSING FOR AN AUTOMOBILEENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filed Jul. 21, 2004, which is incorporated hereinby reference, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/895,099, entitled“INSTALLATION APPARATUS FOR AN AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filedJul. 21, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/920,431, entitled “AUTOMOBILE ENTERTAINMENTSYSTEM”, filed Aug. 18, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference,and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/920,430, entitled “AUTOMOBILEENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM”, filed Aug. 18, 2004, which is incorporated hereinby reference.

As briefly mentioned above, a DVD player 20 is integrated with the videomonitor 16 to form the video system 12 of the present invention. The DVDplayer 20 is integrated with the video monitor 16 to facilitateconvenient viewing of media on the video monitor 16 while alsoconserving space within the limited confines of the automobile 11. Forexample, by integrating the DVD player 20 with the video monitor 16individuals using the video monitor 16 may conveniently insert DVDswithin the video system 12 without reaching within another part of theautomobile 11.

With this in mind, it is contemplated the present video system 12 may bepositioned within any headrest 14 employed in a car, truck, SUV, or van.The video system 12 may be placed within all vehicle headrests (and,with regard to automobiles having three rows of seats, video systems maybe positioned within both the front seat headrests and the second seatheadrests). In this way, individuals sitting on opposite sides of anautomobile 11 can watch different video content on different videosystems 12. In fact, different videos may be viewed, and wirelessheadphones may still be employed, by utilizing a multi-channel IRtransmitter in conjunction with the present system.

The present video system 12 is provided with the ability to offer avariety of functionalities. These functionalities may be hardwired orprogrammed within the video system 12 or the functionalities may beadded in a modular manner via an expansion slot 40 provided within thevideo system 12 . Contemplated functionalities include, but are notlimited to satellite radio (for example, SIRIUSXM), PICTEL phone,satellite television (for example, DIRECTV), GPS guidance systems, quickrelease battery packs, memory cards, wireless Internet access (forexample, Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, digital video recorders, digital videoreception and recording, digital video inputs, video conferencing,cellular digital, cellular digital with a camera, USB capabilities, BLUESPHERE, hot swap hard drive, satellite video import card, wireless videoimport card, etc.

Enhanced usage is further provided by the inclusion of RCA ports 34, orother a/v input/outputs, formed within the cradle 38 and containedbehind a cover 36 which may be selectively opened to reveal the ports34. The inclusion of these ports 34 allows for ready attachment of thepresent video system 12 to other remote a/v sources (for example, gameconsoles, portable digital music players, etc.).

In addition, and in accordance with a preferred embodiment, a broadcasttelevision receiver 19 is integrated with the video monitor 16 and/orthe headrest 14. More particularly, and with reference to FIG. 2, thehousing 18 is provided with a rear recess 37 shaped and dimensioned forreceiving a television receiver 19. The television receiver 19 may,therefore, be wired for use in conjunction with the video monitor 16 ina manner known to those skilled in the art.

The television receiver 19 is further provided with an antenna 21. Theantenna 21 is electrically connected to the television receiver 19 forthe transmission of over-the-air signals. The antenna 21 issubstantially U-shaped and is wrapped about the housing 18. While aU-shaped antenna wrapped about the housing is disclosed in accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the antenna may beoriented within a variety of locations within the headrest withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present invention.

Control of the video system 12, including the video monitor 16, DVDplayer 20 and other components of the video system 12, is facilitated bythe provision of control buttons along the outer surface of the videosystem 12. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, the control buttons take the form of a multifunctioncontroller 60 permitting movement of a cursor shown upon variousinterfaces displayed upon the video monitor 16. In addition,conventional control buttons 62 may also be provided for control oftraditional functions. In addition to the provision of manual controlbuttons 62, the video system 12 may further include a remote control(not shown) such that an individual need not actually touch the videosystem 12 to control the video content or the volume generated by thevideo system 12. Once again, and as those skilled in the art willcertainly appreciate, a variety of remote control systems may beutilized without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

As briefly mentioned above, the present video system 12 is adapted forremoval from the headrest 14 of an automobile 11 for use at a variety ofother locations. In accordance with a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention, the other locations are provided with a dockingstation 50′, 50″, 50′″ including auxiliary cradles 38′, 38″, 38′″ shapedand dimensioned for receiving the video system 12 and coupling the videosystem 12 to power sources and a/v sources in a manner similar to thecradle 38 used in conjunction with the headrest 14.

For example, and with reference to FIG. 9, a docking station 50′ for usein conjunction with the dash 52 of a conventional automobile 11 isdisclosed. The docking station 50′ includes an auxiliary cradle 38′(with electrical connections and a connecting mechanism (not shown))shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securely holding the videosystem 12 and coupling the video system 12 to power sources and a/vsources in a manner similar to the cradle 38 used in conjunction withthe headrest 14. The docking station 50′ is mounted upon the dash 52 ofan automobile 11 and is wired for connection to a power source and a/vsources (not shown). In addition, the dash docking station 50′ mayinclude an integrated satellite receiver 54′ for providing satellitecontent to the passenger of the automobile 11 by transmitting thesatellite signal through the cradle 38′ and into the video system 12 viathe respective electrical connections of the cradle 38′ and the videosystem 12. This embodiment is particularly useful where the video system12 includes functionality relating to the provision of GPS guidanceinformation. With this in mind, the driver will be able to selectivelyuse the video system 12 for accessing guidance information when neededand return the video system 12 to the headrest 14 when guidanceinformation is no longer needed.

With reference to FIG. 10, a mobile docking station 50″ may also beprovided. The mobile docking station 50″ also includes an auxiliarycradle 38″ (with electrical connections and a connecting mechanism (notshown)) shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securely holding thevideo system 12 and coupling the video system 12 to power sources anda/v sources in a manner similar to the cradle 38 used in conjunctionwith the headrest 14. The docking station 50″ may include a battery pack55″, a/v inputs 56″, a/v outputs 57″, internet capability, speakers 58″,cable input 59″ and/or an integrated satellite receiver 54″. Thesecomponents are linked to the video system 12 via the cradle 38″ whichtransmits the relevant signals to and from the video system 12 via therespective electrical connections of the cradle 38″ and the video system12.

With reference to FIG. 11, yet a further embodiment of a docking station50′″ is disclosed. This docking station 50′″ is adapted for staticmounting within a household, office or other locations (for example,beneath a kitchen cabinet 53′″). The docking station 50′″ includes anauxiliary cradle 38′″ (with electrical connections and a connectingmechanism (not shown)) shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securelyholding the video system 12 and coupling the video system to powersources and a/v sources in a manner similar to the cradle 38 used inconjunction with the headrest 14. The docking station 50′″ may include abattery pack 55′″, a/v inputs 56′″, a/v outputs 57′″, Internetcapability, speakers 58′″, cable input 59′″ and/or an integratedsatellite receiver 54′″. These components are linked to the video system12 via the cradle 38′″ which transmits the relevant signals to and fromthe video system 12 via the respective electrical connections of thecradle 38′″ and the video system 12.

As shown in FIG. 11, when the video system 12 is mounted beneath akitchen cabinet 53 as shown, it may be necessary to mount the videosystem 12 upside down when compared to its mounting within an automobileheadrest 14. With this in mind, the video system 12 is provided with theability to rotate to the image shown on the video monitor 16 so that thevideo system 12 may be used in a variety of orientations. The possiblerotation of the image shown on the video monitor 16 is complemented bythe multifunctional controller 60 that adjusts to rotation of the imagesuch that the controller 60 is calibrated to function in accordance withthe orientation of the screen image.

In addition to providing for the inclusion of a removable video system12 directly within the headrest 14 of an automobile 11 as shown abovewith reference to FIGS. 1 to 11, it is further contemplated to providean automobile entertainment system 110 providing for a selectivelyremovable video system 112 mounted adjacent to the headrest of theautomobile.

Referring to FIGS. 12-18, an alternate video system 112 and mountingstructure are disclosed. The video system 112 is adapted for selectivemounting within the seat back 113 of an automobile 111 adjacent to theheadrest. This is achieved by providing a video system 112 having alimited profile and a low profile cradle 138 preferably mounted to theupper end 115 of the seat back 113 at a location adjacent to theheadrest 114. In particular, and as those skilled in the art willcertainly appreciate, a conventional automobile seat 117 includes asubstantially horizontal sitting surface 119 and a seat back 113extending upwardly therefrom. The seat back 113 includes a lower end 127positioned adjacent the horizontal sitting surface 119 and substantiallyhorizontal (that is, when the seat back 113 is in its uprightorientation) upper end 115. Extending from the upper end 115 of the seatback 113 is a headrest 114 which is adjustably supported relative to theseat back 113 by one or more upwardly extending support posts 121.

As with the embodiment disclosed above, the video system 112 isdetachably mounted within a cradle 138 secured to the seat back of anautomobile 111 at a position adjacent to the headrest 114. The videosystem 112 generally includes a video monitor 116 for presenting mediacontent and a video source 120 integrated therewith.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, thevideo source is a DVD player 120 coupled to the video monitor 116 forthe transmission of video content thereto. That is, the DVD player 120or other video source is integrated within the same video housing 118 asthe video monitor 116. It is also contemplated that a hard drive 123video source may also be integrated with the video monitor 116. As thoseskilled in the art will certainly appreciate, the hard drive 123 willinclude inputs for receiving video content and outputs for transmittingvideo content to the video monitor 116, both of which are well known tothose skilled in the art. However, and as discussed above with referenceto the prior embodiments, the video source may take a variety of formswithout departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The video monitor 116, DVD player 120, hard drive 123 and associatedcontrol components are mounted within the video housing 118. Inaccordance with a preferred embodiment, the video monitor 116 is a TFTLCD screen. However, it is contemplated that other monitorconstructions, for example, plasma, Ultra High Definition VGA, touchscreen VGA, organic LED, fabric based monitors (e.g., flexible TFT)etc., may be used without departing from the spirit of the presentinvention.

With regard to the DVD player 120, it is integrally molded within thevideo housing 118 and positioned for insertion of the DVDs behind thevideo monitor 116. By mounting the DVD player 120 in this way, a stablestructure is developed that is well adapted for the automobileenvironment. While the DVD player is disclosed as being a slot-loadeddesign with insertion behind the video monitor, the DVD player couldtake a variety of other forms without departing from the spirit of thepresent invention.

The video system 112 is either detachably or fixedly mounted within acradle 138 formed in the upper end 115 of the seat back of theautomobile 111. As will be appreciate based upon the followingdisclosure, the design of the video system 112 and cradle 138 allows forthe creation of multiple cradles 138 within an automobile, permittingselective and convenient positioning and/or installation of the videosystems 112 at the various cradle 138 locations within the automobile111.

More particularly, the base 164 of the video system 112 is selectivelymounted to a cradle 138 secured to the upper end 115 of the seat back113 of the automobile 111 in a manner that permits rotation of the videohousing 118. The base 164 extends from an edge of the video housing 118.The base 164 includes a first hinge 166 that facilitates rotation of thevideo housing 118 about an axis substantially parallel to the upper end115 of the seat back 113 of the automobile 111 for movement to enhanceviewing for passengers of different sizes.

The first hinge 166 also provides for rotation of the base 164 betweenan extended position in which the base 164 is oriented for attachment tothe cradle 138 in a manner allowing for use of the present video system112 and a storage position in which the base 164 is rotated about thefirst hinge 166 for positioning within a recess 168 within the back wall125 of the video housing 118. With this in mind, the recess 168 isshaped and dimensioned to fully receive the base 164 such that the base164 is substantially continuous with the outer surface of the videohousing 118 when the base is in its storage position.

The base 164 projects from the video system 112, permitting selectivecoupling of the video system 112 within the cradle secured to the upperend 115 of the seat back 113 of the automobile 111 . The base 164includes a fastening mechanism composed of latches 174 which fixedlysecure the video system 112 to the cradle in a manner discussed below ingreater detail.

In accordance with an alternate embodiment as shown with reference toFIGS. 19 and 20, the latches 374 are integrated with a spring biasedactuation mechanism 380 which permits movement of latches 374 between anextended orientation and a retracted orientation. The actuationmechanism 380 includes finger levers 382, 384 which are pushed towardone another to retract the latches 374. As such, the latches 374 mayseat within recesses 376 found in the housing 318 of the video system312 to prevent inadvertent movement of the base 364. When it is desiredto move the base to its extended orientation, the finger levers 382, 384are pressed releasing the latches 374 from within the recesses 376 andpermitting rotation of the base 364. Thereafter, the latches 374 may beused in securing the base 364 to the cradle 338.

The cradle 138 is shaped and dimensioned for receiving and securing thevideo system 112 adjacent the headrest 114 at the upper end 115 of theseat back 113 of the automobile 111. As was discussed above withreference to the other embodiments, similar cradles may be provided atother locations permitting use of the video system 112 at other remotelocations.

As with the prior embodiment, the cradle 138 utilized in accordance witha preferred embodiment of the present invention includes quick releaseelectrical connections 142 for the audio input 122, audio output 124,video input 126, video output 128 and power supply 130 (although oneembodiment contemplates a system which connects only to a power supply).The video system 112, and particularly, the base 164 of the video system112, includes mating electrical connections 144 for transmittingelectricity and a/v signals between the cradle 138 and the video system112. In particular, when the video system 112 is mounted upon the cradle138, the respective electrical connections 142, 144 mate to provide forthe transmission of power and a/v signals between the video system 112and the cradle 138. As those skilled in the art will certainlyappreciate, other readily removable electrical connections for otherpurposes may also be supplied if one determines they are so needed.

In addition to the electrical connections provided on the cradle 138,the cradle 138 also includes a fastening mechanism 190 adapted forselective engagement with the fastening mechanism 172 of video system112. The fastening mechanism 172 of the cradle 138 is composed of latchmembers 176 shaped and dimensioned for receiving latches 174 in a mannerdiscussed below in greater detail. Where a more permanent connectorbetween the video system and cradle is desired, screws and screw holesin the cradle may be employed as shown with reference to the embodimentshown in FIGS. 21 and 23.

The usefulness of the present embodiment is enhanced by the fact thatthe cradle 138 is formed with a low profile that substantially conformsto the shape of the upper end 115 of the seat back 113 of the automobile111. More particularly, each cradle 138 installed within an automobile111 is positioned such that the faceplate 192 conforms with the upperend of the seat back. With this in mind, the cradle 138 is constructedwith a metal mounting plate 196 directly secured to the upper end of theseat back of the automobile 111 and a docking port 198 secured thereto.The docking port 198 includes the electrical and mechanical componentsdiscussed above which allow for the direct attachment of the videosystem 112 thereto.

More particularly, and with reference to FIG. 18, the mounting plate 196is shaped and dimensioned to extend laterally across the upper end 115of the seat back 113. With this in mind, the mounting plate 196 includesfirst and second laterally clamp members 178, 180 for engaging thesupport posts 121 of the headrest 114 and securing the mounting plate196 thereto. In this way, the mounting plate 196 sits substantiallybetween the upper end 115 of the seat back 113 and the lower portion 182of the headrest 114. The mounting plate 196 also includes a centralsection 184 in which the docking port 186 is positioned.

The mounting plate 196 is desired for attachment to a variety ofautomobile seat structures. As such, the mounting plate 196 is formedwith a three-piece construction allowing for adjustments to accommodatea variety of seat sizes. The mounting plate 196 includes a centralmember 200, a first lateral member 202 and a second lateral member 204.The first and second lateral members 202, 204 are secured to oppositesides of the central member 200 for adjustment relative thereto. Inaddition, the central member 200 includes upwardly extending walls 206along the perimeter thereof which function to define a mounting area inwhich the base 164 of the video system 112 may be mounted.

More particular, the central member 200 includes a first lateral side208, a second lateral side 210, a front side 212 and a rear side 214.The first lateral member 202 is secured to the central member 200 alongthe first lateral side 208 and the second lateral member 204 is securedto the central member 200 along the second lateral side 210. The firstlateral member 202 is secured to the first lateral side 208 in a mannerallowing one to selectively move the first lateral member relative tothe central member 200. This is achieved by providing the first lateralmember 202 with forward and rearward tracks 216, 218 in which set screws220, 222 extending to the central member 200 ride allowing foradjustment of the first lateral member 202 relative to the centralmember 200. When a desired orientation is achieved, the set screws 220,222 are tightened securing the first lateral member 202 in positionrelative to the central member 200. Similarly, the second lateral member204 is secured to the second lateral side 210 in a manner allowing oneto selectively move the second lateral member 204 relative to thecentral member 200. This is achieved by providing the second lateralmember 204 with forward and rearward tracks 224, 226 in which set screws228, 230 extending from the central member 200 ride allowing foradjustment of the second lateral member 204 relative to the centralmember 200. When a desired orientation is achieved, the set screws 228,230 are tightened securing the second lateral member 204 in positionrelative to the central member 200.

Adjustability of the first and second lateral members 202, 204, andultimately the entire mounting plate 196 is achieved by provided each ofthe first and second lateral members 202, 204 with clamping members 178,180 at opposite ends of the adjustable mounting plate 196. The clampingmember 178, 180 allow for the passage of headrest support posts 121,which are differently spaced, to pass through the mounting plate 196regardless of the orientation of the first and second lateral members202, 204 relative the central member 200.

The installation of the cradle 138 is intended to provided for anaesthetically pleasing appearance and the ceiling docking port 198 is,therefore, provided with a faceplate 192 which substantially aligns withand is, therefore, conforming with the upper end 115 of the seat back113 of the automobile 111. Aesthetics are further enhanced by theprovision of a cover member 100 which may be selectively placed over thedocking port 198 when it is not in use. The cover member is preferablyfrictionally engaged with docking port 198 when positioned for covering.As shown with reference to FIG. 17, the cover member may be a simplecover 100. However, it is also contemplated the cover may be a poweredcover with various power sources extending therefrom or an illuminatingcover with lights as disclosed in commonly owned U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/177,405, filed Jul. 11, 2005, which is incorporated hereinby reference. Where the covers require power, the cover is provided withan electrical connection allowing the cover to tap into the power supplyof the cradle.

As with the prior embodiments, cables 132 extend through the seat backand the cradle 138. These cables 132 ultimately link audio, video andpower to the cradle 138 and video system 112. More specifically, thecradle 138 and video system 112 are electrically connected to theremainder of the automobile 111 via electrical communication lines in amanner known to those skilled in the art.

As with the prior embodiment, the video system 112 is similarly providedwith a base 164 including a fastening mechanism 172 adapted for secureattachment to the cradle. As such, the mounting plate 196 includes arear facing structure shaped and dimensioned for engagement with themounting plate and docking port of the cradle.

In addition, the base 164 of the video system 112 is pivotally securedto and extends from the video housing 118 in which the video monitor 116and DVD player 120 are secured. As such, the base 164 may be secured tothe cradle 138 such that the video housing 118 is positioned justrearwardly of the automobile headrest 114 for viewing from the rear seatthereof.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment, and as shown with referenceto the embodiment shown with reference to FIGS. 21, 22 and 23 below,when it is desirable to fixedly secure the video system to the cradle,the mounting plate is provided with screw holes through which screws arepassed for engagement with threaded screw holes along the mounting plateof the cradle. In this way, the video system is fixedly secured to thecradle for utilization in conjunction with the present invention. Thisfixed attachment results in a system which complies with all automobileregulations relating to the utilization of headrests and the attachmentof devices within an automobile passenger compartment.

While a screw fastening mechanism and removable systems have beendisclosed above in accordance with a preferred embodiment, those skilledin the art will appreciate that other attachment mechanisms, for examplefixed attachment mechanisms or selectively removable attachmentmechanisms, may be employed without departing from the spirit of thepresent invention.

As discussed above, specific wiring arrangements and linking of variousvideo systems within an automobile in accordance with preferredembodiments of the present invention are disclosed in commonly ownedpatent applications that are incorporated herein by reference.

The present video system 112 is provided with the ability to offer avariety of functionalities. These functionalities may be hardwired orprogrammed within the video system 112 or the functionalities may beadded in a modular manner via an expansion slot 140 provided within thevideo system 112 . Contemplated functionalities include, but are notlimited to satellite radio (for example, SIRIUSXM), PICTEL phone,satellite television (for example, DIRECTV), GPS guidance systems, quickrelease battery packs, memory cards, wireless internet access (forexample, Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, digital video recorders, digital videoreception and recording, digital video inputs, video conferencing,cellular digital, cellular digital with a camera, USB capabilities, BLUESPHERE, hot swap hard drive, satellite video import card, wireless videoimport card, etc.

In addition, and in accordance with a preferred embodiment, a broadcasttelevision receiver and an antenna as discussed above with reference tothe prior embodiment shown in FIG. 2 is integrated with the video system112. The video system may also be provided with a flashlight 135controlled by an on/off switch 135 a, which runs off a battery (notshown) mounted within the video system 112. The video system 112 mayfurther be provided with both a 110 V power outlet 137 a and a 12 Vpower outlet 137 b for connection with other electronic devicesrequiring power.

Control of the video system 112, including the video monitor 116, DVDplayer 120, hard drive 123 and other components of the video system 112,is facilitated by the provision of control buttons along the outersurface of the video system 112. In accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention, the control buttons take the formof a multifunction controller 160 permitting movement of a cursor shownupon various interfaces displayed upon the video. In addition,conventional control buttons 162 may also be provided for control oftraditional functions. In addition to the provision of manual controlbuttons, the video system 112 may further include a remote control (notshown) such that an individual need not actually touch the video system112 to control the video content or the volume generated by the videosystem 112.

In accordance with an alternate embodiment and with reference to FIGS.21, 22 and 23, the mounting plate 596 and faceplate 592 are structuredsuch that the docking port 598 faces rearwardly along the upper portion513 a of the seat back 513. In particular, the mounting plate 596 issubstantially L-shaped with a first leg 632 and a second leg 634. Thefirst leg 632 is shaped and dimensioned for attachment to the upper end515 of the seat back 513, while the second leg 634 extends downwardly towrap around the seat back 513 and extend along the upper portion 513 aalong the rear portion of the seat back 513 adjacent the upper end 515thereof.

In particular, and with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, the first leg 632of the mounting plate 596 is shaped and dimensioned to extend laterallyacross the upper end 515 of the seat back 513. With this in mind, thefirst leg 632 of the mounting plate 596 includes first and secondclamping members 578, 580 for engaging the support posts 521 of theheadrest assembly 514. In this way, the mounting plate 596 sitssubstantially between the upper end 515 of the seat back 513 and thelower portion 582 of the headrest 514. The mounting plate 596 alsoincludes a central section 584 connecting the first and second clampingmembers 578, 580, and from which the second leg 634 extends and in whichthe docking port 598 is positioned.

As with the prior embodiment, the mounting plate 596 is desired forattachment to a variety of automobile seat structures. As such, themounting plate 596 is formed with a three-piece construction allowingfor adjustments to accommodate a variety of seat sizes. The mountingplate 596 includes an L-shaped central member 600, a first lateralmember 602 and a second lateral member 604. The first and second lateralmembers 602, 604 are secured to opposite sides of the central member 600for adjustment relative thereto. In addition, the central member 600includes a horizontal plate member 600 a and a vertical plate 600 b.

More particular, the horizontal plate member 600 a of the central member600 includes a first lateral side 608, a second lateral side 610, afront side 612 and a rear side 614. The first lateral member 602 issecured to the horizontal plate member 600 a of the central member 600along the first lateral side 608 and the second lateral member 604 issecured to the horizontal plate member 600 a of the central member 600along the second lateral side 610. The first lateral member 602 issecured to the first lateral side 608 in a manner allowing one toselectively move the first lateral member 602 relative to the horizontalplate member 600 a of the central member 600. This is achieved byproviding the first lateral member 602 with forward and rearward tracks616, 618 in which set screws 620, 622 extending to the horizontal platemember 600 a of the central member 600 ride allowing for adjustment ofthe first lateral member 602 relative to the horizontal plate member 600a of the central member 600. When a desired orientation is achieved, theset screws 620, 622 are tightened securing the first lateral member 602in position relative to the horizontal plate member 600 a of the centralmember 600. Similarly, the second lateral member 604 is secured to thesecond lateral side 610 in a manner allowing one to selectively move thesecond lateral member 604 relative to the horizontal plate member 600 aof the central member 600. This is achieved by providing the secondlateral member 604 with forward and rearward tracks 624, 626 in whichset screws 628, 630 extending to the horizontal plate member 600 a ofthe central member 600 ride allowing for adjustment of the secondlateral member 604 relative to the horizontal plate member 600 a of thecentral member 600. When a desired orientation is achieved, the setscrews 628, 630 are tightened securing the second lateral member 604 inposition relative to the horizontal plate member 600 a of the centralmember 600.

Adjustability of the first and second lateral members 602, 604, andultimately the entire mounting plate 696, is achieved by providing eachof the first and second lateral members 602, 604 with elongated openings678, 680. The elongated openings 678, 680 allow for the passage ofheadrest support posts 621, which are differently spaced, to passthrough the mounting plate 696 regardless of the orientation of thefirst and second lateral members 602, 604 relative the central member600.

Where such a cradle 638 orientation is employed, the base 664 of thevideo system 612 would similarly be adjusted to allow for mounting andviewing from the back seat of the automobile. In accordance with theembodiment disclosed herein, a fixed attachment is disclosed, althoughit is contemplated a selectively releasable construction may be used.More particularly, the mounting plate 596 is provided with screw holes698 through which screws 700 are passed for engagement with threadedscrew holes 698 along the mounting plate 696 of the cradle 538. In thisway, the video system 512 is fixedly secured to the cradle 538 forutilization in conjunction with the present invention. This fixedattachment results in a system that complies with all automobileregulations relating to the utilization of headrests and the attachmentof devices within an automobile passenger compartment.

In accordance with a further embodiment, and with reference to FIGS. 24,25, 26 and 27, the cradle 738 is oriented such that it is positionedrearward of the headrest 714 so that the video system 712 may be mountedthereto without the need of a pivoting base. Where such an embodiment isemployed, the video system 712 would be constructed with a base 764statically fixed to the remainder of the housing 718 such that the base764, and associated video housing, may be directly secured to the cradle738 without pivoting or other adjustments relating to the orientation ofthe video monitor. Where such an embodiment is employed, the videosystem 712 and cradle 738 would be provided with electrical connections742, 744 and fastening mechanisms 772, 790 as discussed above withregard to prior embodiments.

As briefly mentioned above with regard to the embodiment discussed abovewith reference to FIGS. 1 to 11, the present video system 112 is adaptedfor removal from the cradle 138 of an automobile 111 for use at avariety of other locations. In accordance with a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention, the other locations are provided with dockingstations 150′, 150″, 150′″ including auxiliary cradles 138′, 138″, 138′″shaped and dimensioned for receiving the video system 112 and couplingthe video system 112 to power sources and a/v sources in a mannersimilar to the cradle 138 used in conjunction with the ceiling.

While the preferred embodiments have been shown and described, it willbe understood that there is no intent to limit the invention by suchdisclosure, but rather, is intended to cover all modifications andalternate constructions falling within the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined in the appended claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A vehicle entertainment system, comprising:a video system including a housing, a video monitor disposed on a frontsurface of the housing, and a mounting portion disposed on a rearsurface of the housing, wherein the mounting portion is configured topivot into a recess disposed on the rear surface of the housing whilethe video system is not engaged with a cradle, and pivot out of therecess while the video system is engaged with the cradle; and the cradledisposed on an upper end of a seat back within a vehicle, wherein thecradle includes a first opening having a side configured to braceagainst a first support post of a headrest of the seat and a secondopening having a side configured to brace against a second support postof the headrest, and upon mounting the video system to the cradle viathe mounting portion, the housing is spaced apart from the seat backtowards a rear of the vehicle and the video system is electricallyconnected to an electrical connector in the cradle.
 2. The vehicleentertainment system according to claim 1, wherein the video systemincludes a video source, and the video source is a DVD player or harddrive.
 3. The vehicle entertainment system according to claim 1, whereinthe cradle includes an engaging portion engaging with the mountingportion, wherein the mounting portion includes electrical connectorsshaped and dimensioned for engagement with electrical connectors formedon the engaging portion.
 4. The vehicle entertainment system of claim 1,wherein the video system is disposed in an area between the seat and apassenger viewing the video system when the video system is mounted tothe cradle.
 5. The vehicle entertainment system of claim 1, wherein thecradle includes an engaging portion engaging with the mounting portion,the engaging portion includes a first electrical connector, the mountingportion includes a second electrical connector, and the video system isstructurally supported by and electrically connected to the cradle uponmounting.
 6. The vehicle entertainment system of claim 1, wherein thecradle includes an engaging portion engaging with the mounting portion,and upon engaging with the mounting portion, the video monitor ispositioned spaced apart from the cradle, and is closer than any portionof the cradle to a viewer facing the video monitor.
 7. The vehicleentertainment system of claim 1, wherein the electrical connector in thecradle is connected to an electrical system of the vehicle.
 8. Thevehicle entertainment system of claim 1, wherein the mounting portioncomprises an electrical connector disposed on a first surface andconfigured to electrically connect to the electrical connector in thecradle, and a latch disposed on a second surface, adjacent to the firstsurface, and configured to engage a first latch member disposed on theupper end of the seat back and a second latch member disposed on therear surface of the housing.
 9. The vehicle entertainment system ofclaim 1, further comprising a cover member configured to attach to thecradle and cover the electrical connector in the cradle while the videosystem is not engaged with the cradle.
 10. The vehicle entertainmentsystem of claim 1, wherein the cradle is disposed between a firstheadrest post of a headrest and a second headrest post of the headrest.11. A vehicle entertainment system, comprising: a video system includinga video monitor disposed on a front surface of the video system, and amounting portion extending downward from a bottom surface of the videosystem; and a cradle comprising a first leg configured to rest againstan upper end of a seat in a vehicle and a second leg configured to restagainst a rear surface of the seat, wherein the first leg comprises afirst opening configured to brace against a first support post of aheadrest of the seat and a second opening configured to brace against asecond support post of the headrest, and the second leg comprises adocking port configured to engage the mounting portion.
 12. The vehicleentertainment system of claim 11, wherein the video system is disposedin an area between the back of the seat and a passenger viewing thevideo system when the mounting portion and the docking port are engaged.13. The vehicle entertainment system of claim 11, wherein the dockingport includes a first electrical connector, the mounting portionincludes a second electrical connector, and the video system isstructurally supported by and electrically connected to the docking portupon mounting.
 14. The vehicle entertainment system of claim 13, furthercomprising a cover member configured to attach to the docking port andcover the first electrical connector while the video system is notengaged with the docking port.
 15. The vehicle entertainment system ofclaim 11, wherein the mounting portion and the docking port eachcomprise a plurality of holes, and the mounting portion is configured toattach to the clocking port via a plurality of screws extending throughthe holes of the mounting portion and into the holes of the dockingport.